St Albans City and District Council (SACDC) has announced that construction work has started on the new multi-million pound Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre.

Willmott Dixon commenced work on site following a turf-cutting ceremony on 21 March, with the S&P Architects-designed venue due for completion in summer 2012.

Facilities at the Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre will include a 500sq m (5,382sq ft) spa area with a 60sq m (646sq ft) terrace overlooking the nearby abbey.

A total of 647sq m (6,964sq ft) of water space and overall capacity for 223 swimmers is to also be provided, along with a 200-station fitness suite with cycle spinning studio.

Other facilities will include two exercise/multi-purpose studios; a climbing wall; a children's soft play area; a café/bistro; and a poolside health suite.

SACDC portfolio holder for sport and leisure Anthony Rowlands said: "Work on site has begun and we are all systems go to have our new state of the art leisure centre open by summer 2012."